The professionals that are attracted to learn to swim

You just never know the people that invest their time into teaching young people to swim.

Jason McDonald is an Aquatic Education Instructor at Wellington Regional Aquatic centre in Wellington and is also a commercial pilot. He works on a casual basis covering classes when his flight schedule allows.

Earlier in the year Jason attended the Swimming New Zealand Swim Teacher Award Course (SNZ STA) and has now completed all of his post course requirements following an excellent practical assessment with SNZ Education Advisor Sarah Gibbison.

His practical assessment consisted of two classes that Sarah said “were very well run, well structured, included plenty of practice time and were super fun; one child exited the pool saying it was the funnest lesson she had ever had”.

After his assessment Sarah sat down with Jason to ask him about why he chose to give his time in this area given his very busy role as a pilot

“Swim teaching is a very professional industry that does not get anywhere near the credit it deserves,” Jason said. “There are undoubtedly many people out there that do not know the flexibility the role offers.”

The role also allows him opportunities to practise his communication and situational awareness skills in the pool as he works towards achieving his overall goal of helping kids to swim.

Jason also said it was enjoyable being able to laugh at himself, with the kids and having the professional opportunity to be a kid yourself.

“They (the children) are constantly throwing energy at you, enjoying being with their friends, perhaps feeling nervous and being hyped up in the situation.”

“It is such an active job, it keeps me busy and no two days are the same!”

If you are interested in becoming a swim teacher visit the Swimming New Zealand website here.